Big Bear 78

I've taken this pack out on several backpacking trips, and Im not really impressed. The good thing about this pack is the size of the internal compartment. Having a little Bigger size means having more options. At 78 liters you can pack this pretty tight with everything you're going to need for a multi day trip. I was able to pack fairly generously and never felt like i was missing anything. I also like the separate sleeping back access zipper. It made getting to your gear a little easier when it was time to set up camp. The hydration pocket is more than adequate for a 3 liter bladder.

Now for the cons. First, the shoulder straps are woefully inadequate for carry more than 30 pounds over anything more than flat terrain. I carried this pack with 50lbs up a 4000 footer and my shoulders paid dearly. The padding is just too thin to support any kind of heavy load. Secondly, I simply could not balance the load. Rock scrambles with an unbalanced load added to the challenge of the climb, and on the descent, the strain on my neck and shoulders was substantial.

The external pockets are definitely lacking. Two side pockets are enough for a few small items, and the mesh pocket in the center of the pack is similar. Don't put anything in there you don't want exposed to the weather. There is also no place to lash down any external gear. The shock cords in the center of the pack can maybe manage small items like sandals or a light jacket, but I wasn't able to use it for much more than that. Also, I would like to have seen some pockets on the waistbelt for a tool, or GPS. There is a front compartment that is a fairly decent size but lack of front access to the main compartment meant having to fish through things if you needed any of your gear mid hike. Not a huge deal, but a bit of a hassle.

For serious backpacking, look elsewhere. For a little more money you can find a far better pack. For lighter uses, it serves the purpose just fine.

I took this backpack for a 2 week trip island hopping in the Philippines. Perfect size. I just wish there were 1-2 more pockets, but still much better than a suitcase to take on my trip.

Buy Big Bear 78 Now

I owned the older version and hiked many nights with it. This is the new updated version with a bottom zipper for your sleeping bag and overall better access into the main pocket. I love it when a product stays mostly the same but the manufacturer adds the one or two small touches that you thought were missing from the original! I really liked the old version, and I love the new version!

Read Best Reviews of Big Bear 78 Here

I was looking for a low cost but quality back pack and this is what I got.. I was very impressed with thte quality of the bag and the price, not to mention how much the bag can carry, and as if that wasnt enough the bag is ultra light. definatey got my monies worth.

Want Big Bear 78 Discount?